Propulsion systems and ships

Abstract

This technology provides an improvement in the efficiency of inspection work for universal joints. [Solution] The propulsion device is a propulsion device used in a ship and comprises a universal joint, a protective member that is expandable and contractible relative to the universal joint on the radially outward side of the universal joint, and an outer cover connected to the protective member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a propulsion device and a ship.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an outboard motor including a universal joint and a boot covering the outer periphery of the universal joint. The boot is made of, for example, rubber and is fixed on the outboard motor side and the hull side to prevent water from entering the space where the universal joint is located.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When inspecting the universal joint as an inspection operation of the propulsion device (outboard motor) with the configuration of Patent Document 1, the operation of removing the fixed protective member (boot) is required as a preparatory operation. In addition, the propulsion device may be provided with an exterior cover for protecting the protective member. In this case, the operation of opening the exterior cover is further required as a preparatory operation. Such preparatory operations may reduce the work efficiency of the inspection operation of the universal joint.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a technique capable of improving the work efficiency of the inspection operation of the universal joint.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A propulsion device according to one aspect of the present invention is a propulsion device used in a ship, comprising a universal joint, a protective member that is expandable and contractible relative to the universal joint on the radially outward side of the universal joint, and an outer cover connected to the protective member.

[0007] A vessel relating to another aspect of the present invention is equipped with the above-mentioned propulsion system. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The above configuration can improve the efficiency of inspection work on universal joints. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a side view showing the schematic configuration of a vessel according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a side view showing the general configuration of the propulsion system of the above-mentioned vessel. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view from the upper left showing the configuration of the universal joint of the above propulsion device. [Figure 4] This is an enlarged view showing the housing and exterior cover area of ​​the above-mentioned propulsion system. [Figure 5] This is a magnified cross-sectional view showing the area near the left arm portion of the housing described above. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the guide rail section provided on the arm section described above. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view showing another modified example of the guide rail section described above. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the opening and closing operation of the exterior cover shown above. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the area near the rear wall of the exterior cover mentioned above. [Figure 10] This is an enlarged view showing the area near the recess of the protective member of the propulsion device when the exterior cover is fixed to the housing. [Figure 11] This is a rear view showing a modified configuration of the clamping portion of the protective member described above. [Figure 12] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating a modified example of the clamping portion described above. [Figure 13] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating a modified example of the connection configuration between the exterior cover and the protective member described above. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0011] [1. General Structure of the Ship] Figure 1 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of a vessel 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of explanation, directions are defined as follows in this specification: The bow side of the vessel 1 is "forward," and the stern side is "rear." Also, as viewed from the perspective of the helmsman (pilot) facing forward on the vessel 1, the left side is "left," and the right side is "right." Furthermore, the direction of gravity perpendicular to the longitudinal and lateral directions is defined as the vertical direction, with the upstream side of the direction of gravity being "up," and the downstream side being "down." In the drawings, forward is indicated by the symbol "F," rear by "B," left by "L," right by "R," upward by "U," and downward by "D," as necessary.

[0012] The vessel 1 comprises a hull 2 ​​and a propulsion system 3. The hull 2 ​​has a cabin 21 and an engine 22. The cabin 21 is located on the hull 2. The cabin 21 is equipped with a control unit (not shown) and the like, which allows the operator to operate the vessel 1. Therefore, the operator, located inside the cabin 21, can operate the control unit to propel the vessel 1.

[0013] The engine 22 is located on the rear side of the interior of the hull 2. The engine 22 is the power source for the ship 1. The engine 22 is a diesel engine, but is not limited to this; for example, it may be a gasoline engine. The power source for the ship 1 is not limited to the engine 22; for example, it may be an electric motor. The propulsion device 3 is connected to the rotating shaft (output shaft) of the engine 22.

[0014] The propulsion device 3 is arranged behind the hull 2. The propulsion device 3 is driven by the engine 22. When the propulsion device 3 is driven, the propeller 3a rotates. Thereby, the ship 1 can be made to sail. That is, the propulsion device 3 is a propulsion device used for the ship 1 (particularly the sailing of the ship 1). Hereinafter, the configuration of the propulsion device 3 will be described.

[0015] 〔2. Schematic configuration of the propulsion device〕 FIG. 2 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of the propulsion device 3. In FIG. 2, for the sake of convenience, the illustration of the propeller 3a shown in FIG. 1 is omitted.

[0016] The propulsion device 3 is attached to the rear end portion 2B of the hull 2 via a rotation support member 3b. More specifically, the rotation support member 3b is composed of a substantially annular metal member extending in the left - right direction and the up - down direction. The rotation support member 3b is supported by the rear end portion 2B of the hull 2 so as to be rotatable about an axis along the up - down direction. Also, the rotation support member 3b supports the propulsion device 3 so as to be rotatable in the up - down direction. Therefore, by the rotation support member 3b, the propulsion device 3 is supported by the hull 2 so as to be rotatable in the left - right direction and the up - down direction.

[0017] In addition, the propulsion device 3 is rotated in the left - right direction with respect to the hull 2 by a swing cylinder (not shown) arranged inside the hull 2. More specifically, the above - mentioned swing cylinder is composed of, for example, a hydraulic cylinder and is movably telescopic. One end portion of the swing cylinder is connected to a steering arm (not shown) connected to the upper end portion of the rotation support member 3b. When the swing cylinder expands and contracts, the rotation support member 3b rotates about an axis along the up - down direction via the steering arm. As a result, the propulsion device 3 rotates in the left - right direction with respect to the hull 2. When the propulsion device 3 rotates in the left - right direction with respect to the hull 2, the ship 1 can be turned.

[0018] Furthermore, the propulsion device 3 is rotated vertically relative to the hull 2 ​​by a tilt cylinder 3c. More specifically, the base end of the tilt cylinder 3c is supported at the lower part of the rotation support member 3b, and the tip end is supported on the rear side of the propulsion device 3. The tilt cylinder 3c is, for example, a hydraulic cylinder and is movable so as to be able to extend and retract. When the tilt cylinder 3c extends or retracts, the propulsion device 3 rotates vertically relative to the hull 2. When the propulsion device 3 rotates vertically relative to the hull 2, the propulsion force of the ship 1 can be adjusted.

[0019] The propulsion system 3 comprises an input shaft 31, a universal joint 32, an intermediate shaft 33, a drive shaft 34, a propeller shaft 35, a protective member 36, and a case 37. The intermediate shaft 33, the drive shaft 34, and the propeller shaft 35 are each rotatably supported by bearings (not shown) within the case 37, which extends in the vertical direction.

[0020] The input shaft 31 is composed of a rod-shaped metal member extending in the longitudinal direction. The front end of the input shaft 31 is located inside the hull 2 ​​and is connected to the rotating shaft of the engine 22 (see Figure 1). The rear end of the input shaft 31 is connected to the intermediate shaft 33 via a universal joint 32. The intermediate shaft 33 is composed of a rod-shaped metal member extending in the longitudinal direction. The front end of the intermediate shaft 33 is connected to the input shaft 31 via a universal joint 32.

[0021] The universal joint 32 connects the input shaft 31 and the intermediate shaft 33 while allowing the angle of the intermediate shaft 33 with respect to the input shaft 31 to be freely changed. More details are as follows. Figure 3 is a perspective view from the upper left showing the configuration of the universal joint 32. In this embodiment, the universal joint 32 is composed of a cross joint type universal joint. In detail, the universal joint 32 has a first yoke 321, a second yoke 322, a first cross shaft 323, a second cross shaft 324, and a socket 325.

[0022] The first yoke 321 and the second yoke 322 are both formed in a bifurcated shape. The base end of the first yoke 321 is connected to the rear end of the input shaft 31. Specifically, the first yoke 321 and the input shaft 31 are integrally connected. However, the first yoke 321 and the input shaft 31 may be provided as separate components. The base end of the second yoke 322 is connected to the front end of the intermediate shaft 33. The first cross shaft 323 displaceably connects the first yoke 321 and the socket 325. The second cross shaft 324 displaceably connects the second yoke 322 and the socket 325.

[0023] This allows the angle of the intermediate shaft 33 relative to the input shaft 31 to be freely changed, while connecting the input shaft 31 and the intermediate shaft 33, and transmitting power from the input shaft 31 to the intermediate shaft 33. The configuration of the universal joint 32 is not limited to the above, and may be a ball joint type universal joint, for example.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2 (returning to the previous figure), a first gear 33a is attached to the rear end of the intermediate shaft 33. The first gear 33a is composed of, for example, a bevel gear.

[0025] The drive shaft 34 is composed of a rod-shaped metal member extending in the vertical direction. A second gear 34a is attached to the upper end of the drive shaft 34, and a third gear 34b is attached to the lower end of the drive shaft 34. The second gear 34a and the third gear 34b are each composed of, for example, bevel gears. The second gear 34a meshes with the first gear 33a.

[0026] The propeller shaft 35 is composed of a rod-shaped metal member extending in the front-rear direction. A fourth gear 35a is attached near the center of the propeller shaft 35 in the front-rear direction. The fourth gear 35a is composed of, for example, a bevel gear and meshes with the third gear 34b. The rear end of the propeller shaft 35 protrudes rearward from the case 37. A propeller 3a (see Figure 1) is attached to the rear end of the propeller shaft 35.

[0027] When the engine 22 is driven, the rotational power of the engine 22 is transmitted to the propeller shaft 35 via the input shaft 31, universal joint 32, intermediate shaft 33, first gear 33a, second gear 34a, drive shaft 34, third gear 34b, and fourth gear 35a, causing the propeller shaft 35 to rotate. This causes the propeller 3a to rotate, generating thrust for the ship 1 and enabling the ship 1 to sail.

[0028] At least a portion of the protective member 36 is positioned inside the case 37. The protective member 36 also covers the outer circumference of the universal joint 32. The configuration of the protective member 36 will be described later.

[0029] Case 37 includes a housing 371 located on the front upper side of case 37. An exterior cover 372, which is movable in the front-rear direction, is fixed to the housing 371. In other words, the propulsion device 3 comprises the housing 371 and the exterior cover 372. The configuration of the housing 371 and the exterior cover 372 will be described below.

[0030] [3. Housing and exterior cover configuration] Figure 4 is an enlarged view showing the area around the housing 371 and the outer cover 372. In Figure 4, the operating section 372a, which will be described later, is shown with hatching to clearly indicate its extent. The housing 371 is composed of a connecting wall 371a and a pair of left and right arm sections 371b.

[0031] The connecting wall 371a is composed of a plate-shaped metal member extending in the vertical and horizontal directions. The connecting wall 371a is connected to a component (not shown) of the case 37 located at the rear of the housing 371. The connecting wall 371a is provided with a through hole 371a1 that penetrates in the front-rear direction. The through hole 371a1 is formed in a circular shape when viewed from the front of the propulsion device 3. However, the shape of the through hole 371a1 is not limited to a circle, and may be, for example, an ellipse, a square, a rectangle, or a polygon other than a square and a rectangle. An intermediate shaft 33 is inserted through the through hole 371a1. A universal joint 32 is located in front of the through hole 371a1.

[0032] The left and right arm sections 371b are provided extending forward from the left and right ends of the connecting wall 371a. More specifically, the left arm section 371b extends forward from the left end of the connecting wall 371a, and the right arm section 371b extends forward from the right end of the connecting wall 371a. The left and right arm sections 371b are configured symmetrically.

[0033] A universal joint 32 is positioned between the left and right arm portions 371b in the left-right direction. More specifically, in a side view, the universal joint 32 is positioned so that its vertical center overlaps with the left and right arm portions 371b. That is, the housing 371 (arm portions 371b in this embodiment) covers at least a portion of the universal joint 32.

[0034] A support hole 371b1 is provided near the center in the front-to-back direction of each arm portion 371b, extending in the left-to-right direction. A connecting pin (not shown) is inserted from the left or right side into this support hole 371b1 and a connecting hole (not shown) provided in the rotating support member 3b (see Figure 2). As a result, the housing 371, i.e., the propulsion device 3, is supported so as to be rotatable with the connecting pin as the pivot axis.

[0035] Each arm portion 371b is provided with a guide rail portion 371b2 that supports the outer cover 372 so that it can slide in the front-rear direction. The configuration of the guide rail portion 371b2 will be described later.

[0036] The exterior cover 372 is composed of a hollow member extending in the front-rear direction. More specifically, the exterior cover 372 is composed of left and right side walls 372S, a bottom wall 372D, an upper wall 372U, and a rear wall 372B. The rear wall 372B is connected to the protective member 36. The configuration of the rear wall 372B and the connection configuration between the rear wall 372B and the protective member 36 will be described later.

[0037] The left and right side walls 372S are each composed of flat plate-shaped members extending in the front-rear and up-down directions. The left and right side walls 372S are configured symmetrically. The left side wall 372S is located on the left side of the outer cover 372, and the right side wall 372S is located on the right side of the outer cover 372. The lower wall 372D is formed to bulge downwards and is located below the outer cover 372. The upper wall 372U is formed to bulge upwards and is located above the outer cover 372. Operating sections 372a are provided on the upper left and upper right sides of the upper wall 372U.

[0038] The operating section 372a is formed in a recess toward the inside of the outer cover 372 (see Figure 5, described later). The operating section 372a is used when operating the outer cover 372. For example, an inspector performing inspection work on the propulsion device 3 can place their hand on the operating section 372a and operate the outer cover 372, causing the outer cover 372 to slide in the front-rear direction. In other words, the outer cover 372 has an operating section 372a that enables the operation of the outer cover 372.

[0039] From the standpoint of ensuring reliable operation of the outer cover 372, it is desirable that the outer cover 372 has an operating section 372a that enables operation of the outer cover 372, as in this embodiment.

[0040] The configuration of the operating section 372a is not limited to the above, and may include, for example, a gripping member such as a handle (not shown).

[0041] The left and right side walls 372S are connected at their upper ends to the upper wall 372U and at their lower ends to the lower wall 372D. The left side wall 372S is supported by the left arm 371b, and the right side wall 372S is supported by the right arm 371b. More details are as follows. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the housing 371 and exterior cover 372 cut vertically at the position through which line A-A' in Figure 4 passes, with an enlarged view of the area around the left arm 371b. As mentioned above, the right arm 371b is configured symmetrically with respect to the left arm 371b, and the right side wall 372S is configured symmetrically with respect to the left side wall 372S. For this reason, the following description of the right arm 371b and the right side wall 372S will be omitted.

[0042] A guided portion 372S1 is provided on the left side wall portion 372S. Specifically, the guided portion 372S1 is formed in a recessed shape toward the right on the left side surface 372SL of the left side wall portion 372S.

[0043] The guide rail portion 371b2, provided on the left arm portion 371b, is formed projecting to the right from the right side surface 371bR of the left arm portion 371b. Furthermore, the guide rail portion 371b2 extends in the front-rear direction (see Figure 4). In addition, the guide rail portion 371b2 is integrally provided with the left arm portion 371b. However, the guide rail portion 371b2 may be provided separately from the left arm portion 371b. In this case, the guide rail portion 371b2 may be joined to the left arm portion 371b by welding, or it may be attached by fastening members such as bolts.

[0044] The outer cover 372 is attached to the housing 371 such that the guided portion 372S1 and the guide rail portion 371b2 fit together. This allows the outer cover 372 to slide in the front-rear direction relative to the housing 371. In other words, the guide rail portion 371b2 functions as a restricting portion 371c that restricts the operating direction (movement direction) of the outer cover 372. That is, the housing 371 has a restricting portion 371c that restricts the operating direction of the outer cover 372. In addition, the guide rail portion 371b2 also functions as a reinforcing portion that reinforces the arm portion 371b.

[0045] The configuration of the guide rail section 371b2, i.e., the regulating section 371c, is not limited to the above. More details are as follows. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the guide rail section 371b2. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing another modified example of the guide rail section 371b2.

[0046] As shown in Figure 6, the modified guide rail portion 371b2, which is provided on the left arm portion 371b, is formed horizontally on the upper surface 371bU and lower surface 371bD of the left arm portion 371b. In other words, the horizontal upper surface 371bU and lower surface 371bD of the left arm portion 371b constitute the modified guide rail portion 371b2.

[0047] On the other hand, the guided portion 372S1 corresponding to the guide rail portion 371b2 of the modified example is formed on the left side surface 372SL of the left side wall portion 372S, projecting to the left. In this case, two guided portions 372S1 are provided, corresponding to the upper surface 371bU and the lower surface 371bD of the left arm portion 371b.

[0048] Even with the modified guide rail portion 371b2 and guided portion 372S1, the guide rail portion 371b2 and the guided portion 372S1 can be fitted together. Therefore, by fitting the guided portion 372S1 and the guide rail portion 371b2 together and attaching the outer cover 372 to the housing 371, the outer cover 372 becomes slidable in the front-rear direction relative to the housing 371.

[0049] In terms of effectively utilizing the upper surface 371bU and lower surface 371bD of the arm portion 371b to form the restricting portion 371c (guide rail portion 371b2), the restricting portion 371c shown in Figure 6 is preferable to the restricting portion 371c shown in Figure 5.

[0050] As shown in Figure 7, the guide rail portion 371b2 of the other modified form, which is provided on the left arm portion 371b, is formed projecting upward from the upper surface 371bU of the left arm portion 371b. In addition, the guide rail portion 371b2 of the other modified form is formed projecting downward from the lower surface 371bD of the left arm portion 371b. That is, the portion projecting upward from the upper surface 371bU of the left arm portion 371b and the portion projecting downward from the lower surface 371bD of the left arm portion 371b constitute the guide rail portion 371b2 of the other modified form.

[0051] On the other hand, the guided portion 372S1 corresponding to the guide rail portion 371b2 of other modified examples is constructed by bending the tip side (left end side) of the guided portion 372S1 of the modified example shown in Figure 6 upward or downward. More specifically, the guided portion 372S1 located on the upper side is constructed by bending the tip side downward. The guided portion 372S1 located on the lower side is constructed by bending the tip side upward.

[0052] Even with other modified versions of the guide rail portion 371b2 and guided portion 372S1, the guide rail portion 371b2 and the guided portion 372S1 can be fitted together. Therefore, by fitting the guided portion 372S1 and the guide rail portion 371b2 together and attaching the outer cover 372 to the housing 371, the outer cover 372 becomes slidable in the front-rear direction relative to the housing 371.

[0053] In terms of reducing the lateral displacement of the outer cover 372 when the outer cover 372 slides in the front-rear direction, the restricting portion 371c shown in Figure 7 is preferable to the restricting portion 371c (guide rail portion 371b2) shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0054] From the viewpoint of suppressing rattling during operation of the outer cover 372, it is desirable that the housing 371 has a restricting portion 371c that restricts the operating direction of the outer cover 372, as shown in Figures 4 to 7.

[0055] [4. Connection configuration between the outer cover and protective member] The connection configuration between the outer cover 372 and the protective member 36 will be explained based on Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the connection configuration between the outer cover 372 and the protective member 36. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the outer cover 372, protective member 36, and housing 371 cut vertically at the position through which the line B-B' in Figure 8 passes. Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-section of the housing 371, outer cover 372, etc., cut vertically. In particular, the upper part of Figure 8 shows an example where the outer cover 372 is in a closed state, and the lower part of Figure 8 shows an example where the outer cover 372 is in an open state. In Figure 9, for convenience, the intermediate shaft 33 is not shown.

[0056] In particular, as shown in Figure 9, the rear wall portion 372B of the outer cover 372 is provided with a plurality of (four in this embodiment) screw holes 372B1 that penetrate in the front-to-back direction, and an opening 372B2 that penetrates in the front-to-back direction. Internal threads are formed on the inner circumferential surfaces of the plurality of screw holes 372B1. Note that the number of screw holes 372B1 is not limited to four; for example, there may be one or a plurality other than four.

[0057] The opening 372B2 is formed in a circular shape when viewed from the rear of the rear wall portion 372B. However, the shape of the opening 372B2 is not limited to a circle, and may be, for example, an ellipse, a square, a rectangle, or a polygon other than a square and a rectangle.

[0058] In particular, as shown in Figure 8, a protrusion 372B4 is formed along the outer peripheral edge 372B3 of the opening 372B2, projecting radially inward from the universal joint 32. That is, the protrusion 372B4 projects radially to one side of the universal joint 32 (radially inward in this embodiment).

[0059] In this embodiment, the radial direction of the universal joint 32 means the direction perpendicular to the central axis 32AX of the universal joint 32. Furthermore, the radially inward direction of the universal joint 32 means the direction approaching the central axis 32AX of the universal joint 32 in the radial direction. Moreover, the radially outward direction of the universal joint 32 means the direction away from the central axis 32AX of the universal joint 32 in the radial direction. On the other hand, the axial direction of the universal joint 32 means the direction parallel to the central axis 32AX of the universal joint 32 (the direction along the central axis 32AX of the universal joint 32).

[0060] Furthermore, since the opening 372B2 is formed in a circular shape, the protrusion 372B4 is formed in an annular shape. In addition, an insertion portion P1 that is recessed upwards is formed on the upper end side of the protrusion 372B4 (see Figure 9). The function of the insertion portion P1 will be described later.

[0061] The protrusion 372B4 fits into the recess 361 provided in the protective member 36. Therefore, one of the protective member 36 and the outer cover 372 (the outer cover 372 in this embodiment) has the protrusion 372B4, and the other of the protective member 36 and the outer cover 372 (the protective member 36 in this embodiment) has the recess 361 into which the protrusion 372B4 fits.

[0062] The protective member 36 is composed of a hollow member that can expand and contract in the front-rear direction. The universal joint 32 is located inside the protective member 36. More specifically, both the central axis 36AX of the protective member 36 and the central axis 32AX of the universal joint 32 are located along the front-rear direction. In other words, the protective member 36 is positioned to expand and contract radially outward relative to the universal joint 32.

[0063] In this embodiment, the protective member 36 is composed of an elastically deformable bellows-shaped cylindrical member. However, the composition of the protective member 36 is not limited to the above, and may include, for example, a simple elastic material (such as rubber). Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the protective member 36 extending in the vertical and horizontal directions is not limited to a circle, and may be, for example, an ellipse, a square, a rectangle, or a polygon other than a square and a rectangle.

[0064] The front side of the protective member 36 is fastened and fixed to the pivot support member 3b by a band member (not shown) or the like. On the rear side of the protective member 36, a recess 361 is provided along the outer circumference of the protective member 36. Since the protective member 36 is cylindrical, the recess 361 is formed in an annular shape (see also Figure 9). The recess 361 is configured to include a shape that recesses toward the radially inward side of the universal joint 32. That is, the recess 361 recesses toward one radial side of the universal joint 32 (radially inward in this embodiment).

[0065] An insertion portion P2 that protrudes upward is formed on the upper end side of the recess 361 (see Figure 9). That is, either the convex portion 372B4 or the recess 361 (in this embodiment, the recess 361) includes the insertion portion P2, and the other of the convex portion 372B4 or the recess 361 (in this embodiment, the convex portion 372B4) includes the portion to be inserted P1. The function of the insertion portion P2 will be described later.

[0066] The outer cover 372 and the protective member 36 are connected by the interlocking of the protrusion 372B4 and the recess 361. In other words, the outer cover 372 is connected to the protective member 36.

[0067] With the above configuration, for example, when inspecting the universal joint 32, when the outer cover 372 is operated forward (by the inspector), the protective member 36 contracts (in the front-rear direction) while the outer cover 372 moves forward (see the lower diagram in Figure 8 in particular). As a result, the universal joint 32 is exposed, and the universal joint 32 can be visually inspected from outside the propulsion device 3. Therefore, the preparation work for inspecting the universal joint 32 can be reduced to a single operation (opening the outer cover 372).

[0068] In contrast, if the protective member 36 is connected to a different member (e.g., a housing 371) than the outer cover 372, then in order to expose the universal joint 32, it would be necessary to open the outer cover 372 and release the protective member 36. In other words, the preparation work for inspecting the universal joint 32 would involve at least two steps. Therefore, the configuration in which the protective member 36 is connected to the outer cover 372 simplifies the preparation work for inspecting the universal joint 32 and shortens the inspection time compared to a configuration in which the protective member 36 is connected to a different member than the outer cover 372. In short, the work efficiency of inspecting the universal joint 32 can be improved.

[0069] It is desirable that the protective member 36 be connected to the outer cover 372 with a simple configuration (with a small number of parts). From this viewpoint, it is desirable that one of the protective member 36 and the outer cover 372 (the outer cover 372 in this embodiment) has a protrusion 372B4. It is also desirable that the other of the protective member 36 and the outer cover 372 (the protective member 36 in this embodiment) has a recess 361 into which the protrusion 372B4 fits.

[0070] From the viewpoint of reliably connecting the protective member 36 and the outer cover 372 with the convex portion 372B4 and the concave portion 361, the following configuration is desirable. That is, as in this embodiment, it is desirable that the convex portion 372B4 protrudes from one radial side of the universal joint 32 (radially inward in this embodiment), and the concave portion 361 is recessed into one radial side of the universal joint 32.

[0071] When the outer cover 372 is operated (in the front-rear direction), a portion of the operating force of the outer cover 372 is transmitted to the protective member 36 via the convex portion 372B4 and the concave portion 361. This causes the protective member 36 to contract. At this time, if a portion of the operating force of the outer cover 372 is transmitted uniformly to the protective member 36 in the circumferential direction of the protective member 36 (i.e., the circumferential direction of the universal joint 32), the contraction of the protective member 36 will be smooth. Therefore, from the viewpoint of smoothly contracting the protective member 36, it is desirable that the convex portion 372B4 and the concave portion 361 be formed in an annular shape, as in this embodiment.

[0072] When connecting the protective member 36 and the outer cover 372, the protrusion 372B4 and the recess 361 are fitted together. At this time, the insertion portion P2 of the recess 361 is fitted together while corresponding to (aligning) the insertion portion P1 of the protrusion 372B4 (see Figure 9). Then, the insertion portion P2 is inserted into the insertion portion P1, and the protective member 36 and the outer cover 372 can be connected. In other words, the insertion portion P2 is inserted into the insertion portion P1.

[0073] For example, if the mounting position (connection position) of the protective member 36 relative to the outer cover 372 is misaligned in the circumferential direction of the protective member 36 (circumferential direction of the universal joint 32), the protective member 36 will be connected in a twisted state. When the protective member 36 is connected in a twisted state, it becomes more susceptible to damage. Therefore, from the viewpoint of preventing the protective member 36 from being connected in a twisted state and thus preventing damage to the protective member 36, the following configuration is desirable. That is, as shown in Figure 9, it is desirable that either the protrusion 372B4 or the recess 361 (in this embodiment, the recess 361) includes the insertion portion P2. Also, it is desirable that either the other of the protrusion 372B4 or the recess 361 (in this embodiment, the protrusion 372B4) includes the inserted portion P1 into which the insertion portion P2 is inserted.

[0074] In particular, as shown in the upper diagram of Figure 8, the closed exterior cover 372 can be fixed to the housing 371 by a plurality of bolts B1. More specifically, the connecting wall 371a of the housing 371 is provided with a plurality of through holes 371a2 that penetrate in the front-rear direction. The plurality of through holes 371a2 are provided in correspondence with a plurality of screw holes 372B1 provided in the rear wall portion 372B of the exterior cover 372. That is, in this embodiment, the number of through holes 371a2 is four. However, the number of through holes 371a2 is not limited to four; for example, it may be one, or a plurality other than four.

[0075] A bolt B1 is inserted from the rear into each through hole 371a2 and screwed into the threaded hole 372B1. This fixes the outer cover 372 to the housing 371. By loosening and removing the bolt B1, the outer cover 372 is released from the housing 371. In other words, the outer cover 372 is detachably fixed to the housing 371. The above screwing refers to the engagement and connection of a member having an external thread (bolt B1 in this embodiment) and a member having an internal thread (threaded hole 372B1 in this embodiment).

[0076] In a configuration where the propulsion device 3 includes a housing 371 that covers at least a portion of the universal joint 32, the following configuration is desirable from the viewpoint of reliably protecting the universal joint 32 and improving the efficiency of inspection work on the universal joint 32. That is, as in this embodiment, it is desirable that the outer cover 372 be detachably fixed to the housing 371. The details of the case where the outer cover 372 is fixed to the housing 371 will be described below.

[0077] Figure 10 is an enlarged view showing the area around the recess 361 of the protective member 36 when the outer cover 372 is fixed to the housing 371. In Figure 10, the clamping portion 362 of the recess 361, which will be described later, is shown being clamped between the housing 371 and the outer cover 372.

[0078] When the outer cover 372 is fixed to the housing 371, the housing 371 and the outer cover 372 sandwich the clamping portion 362 located on the rear side of the recess 361. That is, the protective member 36 has a clamping portion 362 that is sandwiched between the housing 371 and the outer cover 372. More specifically, the housing 371 has a first surface S1 that is located opposite the clamping portion 362. This first surface S1 sandwiches the clamping portion 362. That is, the housing 371 has a first surface S1 that sandwiches the clamping portion 362.

[0079] The first surface S1 is positioned perpendicular to the central axis 32AX of the universal joint 32 (see Figure 8) and is formed in an annular shape. More specifically, the radially inner side of the universal joint 32 on the first surface S1 (lower side in Figure 10) is positioned forward relative to the radially outer side of the universal joint 32 on the first surface S1 (upper side in Figure 10). That is, the first surface S1 shifts forward in stages as it moves towards the radially inner side of the universal joint 32. In other words, the first surface S1 is formed in a stepped shape.

[0080] As described above, the protective member 36 is composed of an elastically deformable member. This ensures that the clamping portion 362, in particular, is elastically deformable. Therefore, when the clamping portion 362 is clamped by the housing 371 and the outer cover 372, it elastically deforms (collapses). On the other hand, when the clamping by the housing 371 and the outer cover 372 is released, the clamping portion 362 returns to its original shape.

[0081] In order to ensure a seal between the outer cover 372 and the housing 371 by having the protective member 36 function as a sealing member, and to prevent seawater from outside the propulsion device 3 from flowing into the protective member 36, the following configuration is desirable. That is, as in this embodiment, it is desirable that the protective member 36 has a clamping portion 362 that is sandwiched between the outer cover 372 and the housing 371.

[0082] In a configuration in which the housing 371 has a first surface S1 that sandwiches the elastically deformable clamping portion 362, and in order to reliably realize a configuration in which the protective member 36 functions as a sealing member, it is desirable that the first surface S1 be formed in a stepped shape, as in this embodiment.

[0083] Modified versions of the clamping portion 362 will be described based on Figures 11 and 12. Figure 11 is a rear view showing the configuration of a modified version of the clamping portion 362. Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of a modified version of the clamping portion 362. The clamping portion 362 shown in Figures 11 and 12 has the same configuration as the clamping portion 362 shown in Figure 10, except that it includes a projection 363. The housing 371 shown in Figure 12 has the same configuration as the housing 371 shown in Figure 10, except that it has a second surface S2 (instead of the first surface S1). In Figure 11, the projection 363 is shown with hatching to clearly indicate its extent. In Figure 12, the state just before the clamping portion 362 is (completely) clamped by the housing 371 and the outer cover 372 is illustrated to clearly indicate the shape of the projection 363.

[0084] In particular, as shown in Figure 11, the projection 363 is formed in an annular shape on the rear surface 362B of the clamping portion 362. In the modified example, the rear surface 362B of the clamping portion 362 is also called the third surface S3. Therefore, the clamping portion 362 includes the third surface S3, and the projection 363 is provided on this third surface S3.

[0085] In particular, as shown in Figure 12, the projection 363 is formed to protrude toward the rear. Also, the second surface S2, like the first surface S1 (see Figure 10), is positioned opposite the clamping portion 362 and clamps the clamping portion 362. More specifically, the second surface S2 is positioned opposite the rear surface 362B of the clamping portion 362. That is, the second surface S2 and the third surface S3 are opposite each other.

[0086] In Figures 11 and 12, the second surface S2 and the third surface S3 are positioned perpendicular to the front-rear direction. Therefore, the front-rear direction is the direction in which the second surface S2 and the third surface S3 face each other. That is, the projection 363 protrudes toward one side of the opposing direction (rearward in Figures 11 and 12). Note that the projection 363 may be provided on the second surface S2 instead of the third surface S3. In this case, the projection 363 may protrude toward the other side of the opposing direction (forward in Figures 11 and 12). In other words, either the second surface S2 or the third surface S3 includes a projection 363 that protrudes toward one side of the opposing direction between the second surface S2 and the third surface S3 (rearward in Figures 11 and 12).

[0087] The housing 371 has a second surface S2 that clamps the clamping portion 362, and the clamping portion 362 includes a third surface S3 that faces the second surface S2. In order to ensure that the sealing function of the protective member 36 is reliably performed, it is desirable to secure contact pressure between the second surface S2 and the third surface S3. From this viewpoint, as shown in Figure 11, etc., it is desirable that either the second surface S2 or the third surface S3 (the third surface S3 in Figures 11 and 12) includes a projection 363 that protrudes on one side (rear in Figures 11 and 12) in the direction in which the second surface S2 and the third surface S3 face each other.

[0088] It is desirable that the sealing function of the protective member 36 prevents seawater from entering the interior of the protective member 36, and that this function is carried out over the entire circumferential direction of the protective member 36 (the circumferential direction of the universal joint 32). From this viewpoint, it is desirable that the projection 363 be formed in an annular shape, as shown in Figure 11.

[0089] [5. Modified example of connection configuration between exterior cover and protective member] A modified example of the connection configuration between the outer cover 372 and the protective member 36 will be explained with reference to Figure 13. Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the connection configuration between the outer cover 372 and the protective member 36. The outer cover 372 shown in Figure 13 has the same configuration as the outer cover 372 shown in Figure 8, etc., except that it has an extended portion 372B5 (instead of a protruding portion 372B4). Similarly, the protective member 36 shown in Figure 13 has the same configuration as the protective member 36 shown in Figure 8, etc., except that it has a fitting portion 364 (instead of a recessed portion 361).

[0090] In a modified example, the connection between the exterior cover 372 and the protective member 36 is achieved by the interlocking of the extension portion 372B5 and the fitting portion 364. More specifically, the extension portion 372B5 is formed extending forward from an opening 372B2 provided in the rear wall portion 372B of the exterior cover 372.

[0091] As described above, the central axis 32AX of the universal joint 32 is located along the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the axial direction of the universal joint 32 means the direction parallel to the central axis 32AX of the universal joint 32. Therefore, in the modified example, the front-rear direction becomes the axial direction of the universal joint 32. In other words, the extension portion 372B5 is provided extending in the axial direction of the universal joint 32 (the front-rear direction in the modified example). As mentioned above, since the opening 372B2 is circular, the extension portion 372B5 is formed in an annular shape.

[0092] The fitting portion 364 is provided on the rear side of the protective member 36, along the outer circumference of the protective member 36. As described above, since the protective member 36 is cylindrical, the fitting portion 364 is formed in an annular shape. In particular, the inner diameter of the fitting portion 364 is configured to be approximately the same as the outer diameter of the extension portion 372B5. This allows the inner circumference of the fitting portion 364 and the outer circumference of the extension portion 372B5 to be fitted together. That is, the fitting portion 364 fits with the extension portion 372B5. In order to ensure a secure fit between the inner circumference of the fitting portion 364 and the outer circumference of the extension portion 372B5, it is preferable that the inner diameter of the fitting portion 364 be slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the extension portion 372B5.

[0093] In the modified connection configuration, when the outer cover 372 is operated forward, the protective member 36 contracts (in the front-rear direction) while the outer cover 372 moves forward. This means that the preparation work for inspecting the universal joint 32 can be done with a single operation (opening the outer cover 372). Furthermore, with the modified connection configuration, a seal is reliably ensured between the extended portion 372B5 and the fitting portion 364. For this reason, even if seawater from outside the propulsion device 3 flows between the inside of the outer cover 372 and the outside of the protective member 36, it is prevented from flowing into the interior of the protective member 36. From this viewpoint, as shown in Figure 13, it is desirable that the outer cover 372 has an extended portion 372B5 that extends in the axial direction of the universal joint 32, and that the protective member 36 has a fitting portion 364 that fits with the extended portion 372B5.

[0094] [6. Supplement] In this embodiment, a configuration in which the protrusion 372B4 is provided on the outer cover 372 and the recess 361 is provided on the protective member 36 (see Figure 8, etc.) has been described, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, a configuration in which the protrusion 372B4 is provided on the protective member 36 and the recess 361 is provided on the outer cover 372 is also possible.

[0095] In this embodiment, a configuration in which the insertion portion P1 is provided on the protrusion 372B4 and the insertion portion P2 is provided on the recess 361 (see Figure 8, etc.) has been described, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, a configuration in which the insertion portion P1 is provided on the recess 361 and the insertion portion P2 is provided on the protrusion 372B4 may also be described.

[0096] [7. Addendum] The propulsion system 3 and ship 1 described in this embodiment can also be expressed as the propulsion system and ship shown in the following appendix.

[0097] The propulsion device in Appendix (1) is A propulsion system used in ships, Universal joint and, A protective member is arranged to be expandable and contractible on the radially outward side of the universal joint, The system comprises an outer cover connected to the aforementioned protective member.

[0098] The propulsion device in Appendix (2) is the propulsion device described in Appendix (1), The exterior cover has an operating section that allows the exterior cover to be operated.

[0099] The propulsion device in Appendix (3) is the propulsion device described in Appendix (1) or (2), The universal joint comprises a housing that covers at least a portion of the aforementioned universal joint, The exterior cover is detachably fixed to the housing.

[0100] The propulsion device in Appendix (4) is the propulsion device described in Appendix (3), The housing has a restricting portion that restricts the operating direction of the outer cover.

[0101] The propulsion device in Appendix (5) is the propulsion device described in Appendix (3) or (4), The protective member has a clamping portion that is sandwiched between the outer cover and the housing.

[0102] The propulsion device in Appendix (6) is the propulsion device described in Appendix (5), The housing has a first surface that clamps the clamping portion, The clamping portion is formed to be elastically deformable, The first surface is formed in a stepped shape.

[0103] The propulsion device in Appendix (7) is the propulsion device described in Appendix (5) or (6), The housing has a second surface that clamps the clamping portion, The clamping portion includes a third surface facing the second surface, Either the second surface or the third surface includes a projection that protrudes toward one side in the direction opposite to the second surface and the third surface.

[0104] The propulsion device in Appendix (8) is the propulsion device described in Appendix (7), The aforementioned projection is formed in an annular shape.

[0105] The propulsion device in Appendix (9) is a propulsion device described in any of Appendix (1) to (8), One of the protective member and the outer cover has a protrusion, The other of the protective member and the outer cover has a recess into which the protrusion fits.

[0106] The propulsion device in Appendix (10) is the propulsion device described in Appendix (9), The convex portion and the concave portion are formed in an annular shape.

[0107] The propulsion device in Appendix (11) is the propulsion device described in Appendix (9) or (10), Either the convex portion or the concave portion includes an insertion portion, Either the convex portion or the concave portion, or the other, includes the portion into which the insertion portion is inserted.

[0108] The propulsion device in Appendix (12) is a propulsion device described in any of Appendix (9) to (11), The aforementioned protrusion projects from one side of the universal joint in the radial direction, The recess is recessed on one side of the universal joint in the radial direction.

[0109] The propulsion device in Appendix (13) is a propulsion device described in any of Appendix (1) to (4), The outer cover has an extended portion that extends in the axial direction of the universal joint, The protective member has a fitting portion that engages with the extended portion.

[0110] The vessels specified in Appendix (14) shall be equipped with any of the propulsion devices described in Appendix (1) to (13).

[0111] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto and can be expanded or modified without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the multiple embodiments and modifications shown herein may be combined as possible. [Industrial applicability]

[0112] This invention can be used, for example, in vessels such as pleasure boats and fishing boats. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0113] 1 ship 3 Propulsion device 32 Universal joint 36 Protective component 361 recess 362 Clamping part 363 Protrusion 364 Fitting part 371 Housing 371c Regulatory Department 372 Exterior cover 372B4 Convex part 372B5 Extension part 372a Control unit P1 Inserted part P2 Insertion section S1 page 1 S2 side 2 S3 3rd page

Claims

1. A propulsion system used in ships, Universal joint and, A protective member is arranged to be expandable and contractible on the radially outward side of the universal joint, A propulsion device comprising an outer cover connected to the aforementioned protective member.

2. The propulsion device according to claim 1, wherein the outer cover has an operating part that enables the operation of the outer cover.

3. The universal joint comprises a housing that covers at least a portion of the aforementioned universal joint, The propulsion device according to claim 1, wherein the exterior cover is detachably fixed to the housing.

4. The propulsion device according to claim 3, wherein the housing has a restricting portion that restricts the operating direction of the outer cover.

5. The propulsion device according to claim 3, wherein the protective member has a clamping portion that is sandwiched between the outer cover and the housing.

6. The housing has a first surface that clamps the clamping portion, The clamping portion is formed to be elastically deformable, The propulsion device according to claim 5, wherein the first surface is formed in a stepped shape.

7. The housing has a second surface that clamps the clamping portion, The clamping portion includes a third surface facing the second surface, The propulsion device according to claim 5, wherein either the second surface or the third surface includes a projection that protrudes toward one side in the direction opposite to the second surface and the third surface.

8. The propulsion device according to claim 7, wherein the projection is formed in an annular shape.

9. One of the protective member and the outer cover has a protrusion, The propulsion device according to claim 1, wherein the other of the protective member and the outer cover has a recess into which the protrusion fits.

10. The propulsion device according to claim 9, wherein the convex portion and the concave portion are formed in an annular shape.

11. Either the convex portion or the concave portion includes an insertion portion, The propulsion device according to claim 9, wherein the other of the convex portion and the concave portion includes an insertion portion into which the insertion portion is inserted.

12. The aforementioned protrusion projects from one side of the universal joint in the radial direction, The propulsion device according to claim 9, wherein the recess is recessed on one side of the universal joint in the radial direction.

13. The outer cover has an extended portion that extends in the axial direction of the universal joint, The propulsion device according to claim 1, wherein the protective member has a fitting portion that fits with the extended portion.

14. A ship comprising a propulsion system according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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